Foster Care Fortnight event in Merton for prospective carers

Merton Council is holding a fostering information event at Wimbledon Library, Saturday 24 May from 10am – 3pm to mark Foster Care Fortnight.

Members of Merton’s fostering team and experienced foster carers will be on hand to offer advice and answer any questions about being a foster carer in Merton. The council is laying on free face painting for young children who may be accompanying their parents.

Merton currently has 57 carers looking after children but needs more carers to provide loving homes to young people coming into care.

National Foster Care Fortnight runs from Monday 12 to Sunday 25 May. Foster carers provide a home and the time and attention a young person needs when it is not possible for them to live with their birth parents.

Merton’s director of children, schools and families, Yvette Stanley said: “We are looking for people from all walks of life to come forward, in particular people whose children have left home and anyone with childcare experience and a spare bedroom. We are particularly looking for homes for teenagers and sibling groups.

“As a carer you will receive training and a competitive financial allowance. Also, members from our fostering team are on hand to support carers every step of the way.”